Greece History and a Modern Touch

Many consider Greece the cradle of modern civilization. The historical sites in the country are impressive. Still, Greece also has modern touches making it a good travel destination.



Greece



Walk practically anywhere in Greece and you are walking in the footsteps of antiquity. The home to such historical figures, fictional or not, as Plato and Homer. [not Homer Simpson - the other one. As the center of modern civilization, Greece is considered the home of art, philosophy and many other aspects of culture which set us apart from other creatures. While you could literally spend months in Greece visiting and exploring archeological sites, there country is known for very modern pleasures.



The beaches of Greece are world famous as is the nightlife. For nightlife, Athens is a vibrant city that more or less stays open all night long. Even on Mondays! For sheer excitement, take a taxi on a trip through the city which will make any roller coaster look tame. You can walk through the various market areas or visit the new structures and parks created for the recent Olympic Summer Games.



If a tan is a must, you're best off heading to the islands. Islands such as Santorini, Ios and Mykinos are the stuff of legend among sunbathers. You can burn under the Mediterranean sun all day and party like a rock star all night. All the islands can be reached by ferry with trips taking a few hours.



The Greeks are colorful and a fun-loving group of people. Sit down in a little caf somewhere and you'll soon be talking to a local with tears of laughter in your eyes. Just make sure you watch out for friendly ouzo toasts. They pack a punch. A serious punch.



If you're looking for a travel destination with both historical locations and a chance to loaf on the beach, nothing beats Greece. Prices are generally cheap, so give it a try.

Article Source: http://www.articledashboard.com

Rick Chapo is with www.nomadjournals.com - makers of writing journals. Travel journals are great travel accessories and travel gifts for him or her. Visit www.nomadjournaltrips.com for more travel articles, travelogues and travel stories.

Antarctica: Ultimate Wilderness

In the distance something stirs. A drifting polar bear searches for food on the edge of camp. Despite the presence of the huge beast, the men are in little danger. The guns take care of that. It is rare for a bear to wander so close. She must be hungry.



For the scientists and professionals who choose to live and work in this unforgiving land, Antarctica can seem a very lonely place. Perched upon a hill or mountain somewhere on this great continent, the dry air allows a clear view for many miles. On one of the rare moments the wind drops, the predominantly white landscape offers an eerie silence. You can feel like the only person on the planet.



What attracts anyone to such an inhospitable place? Despite the valuable science and work that is undertaken here, I believe many would choose to live here anyway. For me, the biggest attraction is the alien landscape, unlike anywhere else on the planet. If man is to one-day land on another world, then this is how I would envisage it. Regardless of the barren wilderness and blanket white surroundings, there is no more fascinating place on earth, probably because it is so different.



Despite the inhospitable environment, Antarctica is testament to the tenacity of life. Temperatures have been recorded as low as -89 C; katabatic winds have reached speeds of up to 200 mph. In the face of these daunting figures, it seems incredible that anything can exist here at all. Life always appears to find a way.



My favourite Antarctica phenomenon has to be the static icebergs, fixed in position by the frozen sea. As winter approaches and temperatures plunge, the freezing sea slowly renders the icebergs immobile as they become trapped by the ice. Here they remain until the following spring, when the subsequent rise in sea temperatures melt the frozen ocean, allowing the icebergs to set off once more for foreign shores.



During winter it becomes possible to walk out over the sea and stand next to one of the huge icebergs. It is a very humbling experience standing next to an iceberg the size of an office block. In this planet's evolutionary mix, you realize just how insignificant a human being is.

Article Source: http://www.articledashboard.com

Steven Cronin owns the Sargas Travel online magazine featuring travel reviews, news, inspiration, advice and special offers. For further reading please visit www.sargas.co.uk

General Australian Travel Tips

Weather and the Environment

• Guard against sunburn at all times, but particularly in summer. Use a wide brimmed hat, 15+ sunscreen, sunglasses, protecting clothes and shoes. Australian sunlight has very high UV levels and skin damage occurs quickly, especially during the middle of the day.
• Check future storm fronts for signs of a greenish tinge. This often indicates a hail storm that may cause damage to persons and property.
• Always observe correct beach safety. Swim only at patrolled beaches. Only swim between flagged areas. If in doubt, ask. Always check for caution signs.
• If you intend to swim in shallow coastal waters north of Gladstone, make it your business to be educated about box jellyfish (marine stingers). Usually found in shallow waters near creek or river mouths, more likely after local rain, usually absent in rough water. Not usually found over deep water or coral. Stinger season is usually from December to March in the Gladstone (south) area and longer, from October to June, in the Cairns (north) area. Most popular beaches in the stinger areas are netted to give swimmer protection.
• At all times wear thick soled shoes when walking in shallow tropical waters or reef walking as protection against the highly disguised stonefish. It has dorsal spikes which will rupture the skin of the foot and inject poison causing extreme swelling and agony. Deaths have been occurred as a result of stonefish poisoning.
• There are other venomous creatures on the reef such as some of the cone shell species and coral snakes, both of which are capable of causing death. If you intend spending time on the Barrier Reef without expert guidance, ensure you have a good knowledge of what can harm you before you start.

Road Travel

• Australian traffic drives on the left hand side of the road.
• If you are in doubt about your driving license being acknowledged in Australia, obtain an International License from your local automobile association prior to your departure.
• Road speed limits differ between states but are usually 100-110kph on the highways and 50-60kph in built-up areas. Interstate highways are not of the same standard as USA and European highway systems but nor do they carry the same traffic volumes.
• Don\'t hitch-hike, it is illegal.
• Never leave small children or animals locked in vehicles in very hot weather. Dehydration occurs very rapidly. This practice is illegal.
• The most serious danger on the road is fatigue. Look for driver refreshment stations and pull off and rest after driving for some hours.
• Be cautious when driving on country roads at night in cold weather. Cattle and native animals such as kangaroos lie on the bitumen road surface which holds the warmth of the sun. Car lights blind and mesmerise the animals and they may just as easily run into your vehicle as run away from it.
• When traveling on remote outback roads/tracks, always tell someone at the destination of your expected arrival time and number of people in your party. If you fail to arrive within a reasonable time, help procedures can be started. Do NOT leave your vehicle as a missing vehicle is much easier to find that a missing person.
• When traveling on unsurfaced or poor quality roads, always carry out a vehicle check before starting off on the next sector.
• Extra care is needed when sharing the road with road-trains. These are main movers with multiple trailers of cattle attached and are about 50 metres (170 feet) long. Always give them plenty of space as the buffeting from displaced air as you pass in opposite directions can be quite severe. Allow at least 1 kilometre (3000 feet) of clear road before overtaking a road train.
• Do not try to cross flooded rivers and causeways unless you are sure of the water depth and road surface damage. Most flash floods recede within 24 hours.
• Dirt from passing vehicles on outback roads can obscure your vision. Don\'t take risks, slow down or stop until it settles.

Air Travel

• Steer clear of flying early morning and late afternoon on the eastern seaboard routes. These flights are usually heavily booked by business people traveling between the capital cities.
• Require extra leg room? Ask to be seated in a row that serves the exit doors as these rows seem to have more room.
• When checking in and getting seat allocation, ask if your seat is in the first row immediately adjacent one of the large central video screens. You may wish to ask for a different spot, especially if on a long international flight.
• A departure tax of A$30 per adult is payable when leaving Australia.

Language and Religion

• There is no official religion in Australia. Churches can be located in most towns for both the Catholic and Church of England faith. Other general religions are Methodist, Presbyterian and Uniting Church. Places of worship for Jewish, Moslem, Buddist and other religious denominations not frequent to Australia will only be found in the major towns and cities.
• Need an interpreter? The telecommunications provider Telstra offers a 24 hour translation and interpreter service for an extensive range of languages. Dial 13 14 50. The local white pages telephone book will give more information.

Medical and Pharmaecutical

• Australian nationals and New Zealand visitors are covered by Medicare, the national health cover scheme. It does not apply to visitors from any other country.
• Visitors should always get medical cover insurance prior to departure from their home country.
• Visitors will only require specific vaccinations if they have traveled through an area infected with yellow fever. Visitors passing through other countries when entering or leaving Australia should check the vaccination needs of those countries.
• All cities and most towns offer 24 hour medical facilities by way of private practice clinics or government run hospital amenities. They will be listed in the telephone book of the area you are visiting.
• Chemists are located in all towns and cities all over Australia. The Australian chemist does not operate the \soda fountain\ type of drug store found in the USA.

Telephone and Communications

• In an emergency dial 000 (not 999). This will connect you to the ambulance, fire and police services.
• Phone cards are a popular way of accessing the public phone system. Cards are obtainable from selected newsagents and stores. Select public phones also accept credit cards. Public phone call assistance is available by dialing 013.

Tips and Gratuities

• Australians working in the tourist, hospitality and transport industries are paid a minimum salary. Tipping is not normal practice but is generally considered a suitable gesture of approval when the level of service has exceeded expectations. A tip of around 10% would be considered appropriate.

Customs, Quarantine and Visas

• To enter Australia you will need an up to date passport valid for the duration of your stay and a valid tourist visa issued in your own country and entered into the passport prior to the travel date. New Zealand visitors are exempt from these requirements and are granted an entry permit on arrival. Visa applications are made to the Australian Embassy, Consulate or High Commission, as applicable, in your home country. Make sure you apply for the correct visa type. For example, if you plan to work, you will need to apply for a work permit which is generally limited to singles under 25 and which only allows for casual work to be performed for up to 3 months. Tourist visas are usually valid for a stay of 3 or 6 months. At the time of making your visa application you will have to sign an undertaking that you have an outward bound ticket and sufficient funds for the period of your stay.
• No duty is payable on personal effects. Adults may carry up to 250 cigarettes and 1 litre of alcoholic liquor in their personal effects provided it is carried with them. Duty and sales tax is applied to dutiable goods exceeding A$400. Strict regulations apply to narcotics and prohibited substances.
• When entering Australia you will have to surrender all fresh food, animal and plant products and any unprocessed foodstuffs. You will be required to sign a statement to this effect. This is a quarantine regulation to prevent the entry of foreign organisms that may have a harmful effect on Australia\'s native vegetation, wildlife and farming goods.
• Strict policys apply to the import and export of protected wildlife and items made from protected species. Any such items will be seized by customs officials upon arrival.

Currency, Banks and Shops

• Major shopping centres do not open on Sundays. Tourism oriented outlets do have a 7 day trade as do convenience stores supplying essential needs.
• Banks are only open Mondays through Fridays and usually only between the hours of 9.00 to 4.00. Most towns have automatic teller machines to cater for after-hours transactions.
• Australian currency consists of 5c 10c 20c 50c $1 $2 as coins. Notes are $5 $10 $20 $50 and $100.

Electrical Appliances

• Australian electricity supply is 220-240 volts. Most electronics stores stock adaptors for 110v appliances as well as adaptors for 220-240v appliances with different plug types.

Samuel Richardson
Seasons Travel

Trip Packing List What to Take on Your Vacation

Packing for a trip can be a hassle. You\'re afraid of forgetting something or it won\'t all fit. Here\'s a great packing list.

Clothes - Use a \mix-and-match\ philosophy. Pick out two basic colors such as black and grey. Then pick out three colors with which to accessorize such as white, pink, and royal blue. Don\'t forget a jacket and/or swimsuit (and related items) if needed.

Pajamas/Intimates

Shoes and Socks/Hosiery - You will need business shoes (if a business trip), sneakers for working out, walking shoes, and heels for evening. Also include house slippers for walking around the hotel room. Bring socks for your sneakers, and hosiery for others.

Accessories - Scarves and jewelry can make the same outfit look totally different the next time you wear it. Be sure to pack different looks.

Cosmetics/Toiletries - If you travel often, you may want to buy two of all your cosmetics and toiletries so that you never have to pack this again. Include makeup, hair products (including brush/comb), personal hygiene products, toothbrush/toothpaste, deodorant, razor, lotion, and perfume.

Medicines - A sleep aid is a good one to take along, as well as an antacid.

Misc Items - These include an umbrella, camera, book, cell phone charger, beach items (if appropriate, including beach towels, sunscreen, sunglasses, chairs, rafts/surf boards/boogie boards, cooler, flipflops, hat, bag).

Packing the right gear can mean the difference between having a bad trip and a great trip!

Copyright 2005 Susan Daniel and Debbie Overstreet

About Susan and Debbie: Susan and Debbie are internet marketers. You can review more articles and Web sites on travel by visiting http://www.theluggagemall.com.

Mystic Seaport Links to Our Past Guide Part 3

Mystic Seaport celebrates the seafaring past of New England. Known as The Museum of America and the Sea, the seaport is an entertaining journey through 19th century nautical life.

This is the third part in the series of popular attractions for New England vacations with a historical theme. Others in the series are Plymouth Plantation, Mayflower II, and Old Sturbridge Village.

Located 100 miles from Boston on Route 95 at exit 90 in Connecticut, the Mystic Seaport exhibits are open between 9-5pm April-October, and 10-4:00pm November-March.

Here's what you'll see and how to get the best out of your trip.

There's three main exhibits at Mystic Seaport: the historic ships, the authentic seaport village and exhibits, and the preservation shipyard.

THE SHIPS

Whenever I visit Mystic Seaport I head straight for the Tall Ships in the museum dock area. I'm just drawn to these beauties, and the most popular to tour is the Charles W. Morgan - a wonderful example of a wooden whaling ship. It made 37 whaling trips from its launch in 1841 and before retiring in 1921.

The Joseph Conrad and L.A.Dunton are the other fine specimens of Tall Ships in the museum collection.

These ships alone are worth the trip to Mystic Seaport. But two others with a unique and rich history are the Sabino and Emma C. Berry. More later about the Sabino, but Emma C. first launched in 1866, and since then has undergone many changes as a fishing vessel and a coastal freighter. She was beautifully restored and donated to Mystic Seaport in 1969.

THE AUTHENTIC VILLAGE AND EXHIBITS

A short walk from the ships is the village exhibits and galleries.

A stroll through the recreated Mystic Seaport village stirs the senses. Most of the buildings in the village are authentic and moved from other locations in New England and the Northeast.

With 46 exhibits you'll discover a rich assortment of stores, shops, and homes. Wander around the nautical shops and discover rope making, rigging, cooperage, and the sail loft. And two must-see exhibits are the Mystic River Scale Model, and the Shipsmith shop.

Further down from the village check out the galleries and make sure you spend time inside both the Voyages and Figurehead exhibits.

The three-floor exhibit of Voyages celebrates the legacy of America and the sea, and how it continues to impact our lives in many subtle ways. And across the street is the Figurehead exhibit, and a wonderful collection of carvings.

Unfortunately, these carvings are a bittersweet display. The desire for these carvings on ships has dwindled and it's now become an endangered art form.

Now amble back to the shipyard area and get ready to be amazed

THE PRESERVATION SHIPYARD

I don't know about you but I've always had a healthy fascination for the old master skills, and love to watch people work with them. Many of these skills are being lost as the economics of our time reduce the need for them. Wooden ships are a thing of the past, and so the wonderful carpentry and shipwright skills have dwindled throughout the world.

But here in this corner of the world they are uniquely preserved.

In the Henry B. duPont Preservation Shipyard many of these skills are still practiced to keep the museum ships in tip top shape.

In the yard you'll see carpenter's shops, a rigging loft, a paint shop, metalworking shop, lumber shed, and an old-fashioned sawmill. Close by is the documentation shop containing vital records used by the museum's shipwrights, carpenters and riggers, to maintain accuracy as they work on preserving the ships.

Just across from the duPont building is the shipbuilding exhibit. Here you can see the keel of the whaleship Thames, and take in a revealing display of the many stages of building a ship.

And when you're finally ready for a rest take a 30 or 90 minute cruise on the Sabino steamboat as she travels up and down the Mystic River.

Now that you've armed with this information it's time to set the main sail, raise anchor, and head out to Mystic Seaport to experience this all for yourself.

For more information and ticket prices for Mystic Seaport visit their web site at www.mysticseaport.org.

About the Author

Cliff Calderwood is the owner and contributing writer of www.new-england-vacations-guide.com . You can read other vacation articles and get a free travel report at his Web Guide to New England Vacations site.

Benidorm Spanish Holidays Around The Costa Blanca

Benidorm, which is located just 20 minutes north of the city of Alicante on the Costa Blanca coast Spain, is such as action-packed city. Even though it has a beautiful stretch of soft sandy beaches, we should leave this leisure activity for the end because there are so many kinds of tourist parks to visit around Benidorm.

The biggest Attraction around Benidorm: Terra Mitica

This park in English is called Mythical Land, because it is a theme park which takes us back to the ancient civilizations of Rome, Egypt and Greece, all of which were Mediterranean civilizations. As we all know, the heroes from those times were very brave, not letting anything or anyone frighten them. Do you think you will be like them after having ridden on the topsy turvy roller coaster? Or controlling your heartbeat after riding on many of the other attractions especially set up for you? Maybe you think you will recover a little after watching one of the gladiator shows? Your adrenalin will be pumping fast with all the professional actors making ancient life come so close to you. There is also a part of this park for adventurous kids too. Terra Mitica is open all year round; from November to April it is only open at the weekends and on Spanish holidays. The entrance fee is approximately 40 euros but if you go in groups consult prices. Terra Mitica is found just five minutes north of Benidorm, easily accessible by bus or car.

Aqualandia Water Amusement Park

So you want to cool down a little but the beach is not your cup of tea? Here at Aqualandia you can enjoy a days outing with the whole family. The children can slide down all the water slides as many times as they wish, always being well cared for by the lifeguards on duty. There are water shutes of every size, diving board areas, rapidly moving waters and even a black hole. For the sun beauties like mum and grandma, you can lay around on comfortable hammocks and enjoy a picnic lunch in the shaded areas. It is open from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. and is located on the north entrance hillside to Benidorm.

Another view on the Costa Blanca at the Terra Natura Park

This is not like any other wildlife park. Here, there are four theme areas and a water park. 1.500 animals of over 200 species, 50 of which are in danger of extinction. What a privilege to be the lucky ones to see these living specimens up close! And not only these animals but their natural habitats and fauna which makes their living quarters appropriate for them. As you enter the park, the first area to visit is the Pangea, taking you back in time to hen there were rivers petrified from hot burning lava, abundant vegetation hiding gigantic insects and many other surprises. To the left you are carried away to America, discovering an old mine converted into a tropical farm. The colorful macaws are found in the dove cove and later on the old joins the new in the colonial town of Copaltenango. In the center is Asia.

As you stroll through the natural reserve of Kaziranga, you are able to see rhinoceros, buffalos and the temple of the wildcats. In this section there is a marvelous park for children to play in. And last, but of course not least, is Europe. In the town of Kalicameni, white-washed and full of comedians and natives singing their local songs. All this may sound tiring, but there are many a new food to be tried and a thirst-quenching drink to be had at any of the fabulous restaurants. And for those who need an extra thrill, in the Mare Nostrum waterway, you are fully equipped to have splash with live sharks! Terra Natura is open all year round, offering special passes for those who know how to appreciate a good opportunity and to take advantage of it as often as possible.

Benidorm and the Doliphins at the Mundomar Marine Animal Park

Do you enjoy the water and its interesting animal kingdom but prefer to be on land? Then Mundomar (Seaworld) Marine Animal park is your best bet. All of us have read adventure stories about dolphins and feel that they are our friends, well it\'s time to visit them. Here we can see the silly antics of these adorable sea creatures close up. Or chat up a conversation with the colourful parrots. The elegance and grace is personified with the exhibition of flamingos, so pink! Who has not had a turtle in their home as a pet, but to see ones that you could probably ride is another surprise. But, are you still even more curious and want to see what the marine world is like under the water. Well, we can all become Ariel, or Sebastian as in the Little Mermaid book and go down into a ship and have a look around the sea bottom. Refreshments and resting places are abundant. It is open at 10:00 a.m., adults are 18 euros, children 3-12 years old 12 euros and under 3 are free. The entrance is near the cross roads of Avenue Mediterranean and Avenue Europe. Do not miss this amazing experience!

Between Pego and Oliva: The Vergel Park

If your travels have taken you along the coast heading towards Valencia, then it would be well worth making a stop off highway A-7 exit no. 61 which indicates the towns of Pego and Oliva and just follow the signs to this safari park, found near Ondara. There are all kinds of wild animals to be touched, fed and observed. For a little extra fun time activity, the kids can let their hair fly in the wind when riding a go kart, mini train or ponies. There are even some marine animals like dolphins and sea lions. It is a relaxing and educational day excursion for the whole family. It is only open in the summer from 10:00 in the morning til 7:00 in the evening.

Cactuslandia

Once again, you do not have to hire a camel and head into the dry desert to appreciate the wide selection of over 1000 cactus plants and similar shrubs. This is a private garden created by a German who was and is interested in the theme of cactii and tropical plants like banana trees, papaya, and mango. Also on this 3000m2 rugged hillside surface is an amazing museum which he put together and includes an extensive collection shells, different colored corals, unusual insects from all over the world and even some fossils.

Looking at this huge selection of theme parks and tourist attractions around Benidorm and the Costa Blanca, you certainly will find your favourite one on your next holidays around the spanish coast. Make your stay in Benidorm a complete one and visit each and every one, all unique.

Living with his spanish family around Alicante, the author Robert Carlton runs a marketing agency. He can be reached at his internet site at http://www.alicante-spain.com/benidorm.html

Lima's Lord of Miracles

Imagine a dark-skinned Christ, painted on a wall by an Angolan
slave during the Spanish Viceroyalty. Imagine a wooden platform
covered with silver and gold, weighting over a ton. Imagine a
procession of hundreds of thousands of devotees, all dressed in
purple habits. If you can, you\'ve probably been in Lima during
October, the mystical month. That\'s when the city\'s patron, the
Seor de los Milagros -or Lord of Miracles-, is
celebrated. The largest procession in the whole South America,
it congregates devotees from all over the country.

The origins of the Lord of Miracles date back to the mid XVII
century (probably between 1650 and 1651), during the Spanish
Viceroyalty. An anonymous Angolan slave painted a dark-skinned
Christ on the wall of a humble plot in the Pachacamilla ranch,
near Lima. At the time a non-white Christ was considered
heretic, but notwithstanding the furious attempts by the Spanish
ecclesiastical hierarchy to erase it, the image resisted. The
devotion for the image boosted in 1655, when a massive
earthquake demolished every building in the proximities, but not
that wall.

During the whole month of October, known as the mes
morado -or purple month, due to the Patron\'s colours- minor
observations are celebrated. The main event though, a colossal
procession, is reserved for the 18th. Hundreds of thousands of
devotees, wearing their purple habits, sing and pray while
accompanying the image on its 24-hour route from the Nazarenas
temple to La Merced church, in the historic yet weary Barrios
Altos district.

The wooden portable platform that holds the image is completely
covered with silver and gold, and weights more than a ton. It is
carried out on shoulders by groups of loaders, organized in
cuadrillas (teams) according to shoulder size and height.
Nowadays there are 20 cuadrillas, such as the
\Pachacamilla Christ Brotherhood\ or the \Loaders of the
Canopy\. During the first procession, some 300 years ago, only
eight loaders were needed to hold the platform; today, more than
thirty strong men are needed.

Traditional sweets and food can be purchased from vendors along
the path of the procession, in particular the Turrn de Doa
Pepa, a soft nougat candy made almost only during October.

Bullfighting Season

During October and November, the Seor de los Milagros
bullfighting season takes place in Lima\'s Plaza de Acho (1768),
one of the oldest bullrings in the Americas. Known as the
Feria Taurina del Seor de los Milagros, it gathers the
most prestigious bullfighters of America and Spain, who compete
for the Escapulario de Oro (golden scapular).

This year the traditional bullfighting season celebrates its
60th anniversary, and celebrates it with eight dates: four
bullfights, one rejoneo (bullfights from horse-back), two
novilladas (bullfights with young bulls), and a gala
festival. Some 10 renowned matadors will participate, including
Julin Lpez \El Juli\, Enrique Ponce, Luis Francisco Espl, and
Finito de Crdoba.

Would You Like To Timeshare?

Timeshares are a large part of the vacation travel industry.
Travelers who cannot afford to own a home abroad, or who don\'t
want the worries associated with exclusive ownership, often see
timeshares as an affordable alternative.

However, unscrupulous salespeople, poorly maintained properties
and unexpected hidden costs have brought a lot of bad publicity
to the industry. A well-informed consumer can avoid the common
pitfalls.

It is always risky to buy property sight unseen, but many
people do this when they purchase timeshares. If you purchase in
an area where you wish to vacation, you may be unpleasantly
surprised when you arrive at your destination.

However, many timeshares are purchased with the intent of
trading them for others in different locations, and in this case
the location of the property is a bargaining chip, not the
actual physical property. Timeshares in prime locations such as
Hawaii are easier to trade than others.

Recently, big corporations such as Disney, Hilton, Marriott and
Hyatt have entered the timeshare market, and their properties
are of a uniform standard around the world. First, you should
know that if you buy a new unit directly from a timeshare
company, it may cost up to 60% more than if you purchased from
the resale market.

Buying from a time-share company is more expensive primarily
because of the company\'s marketing costs, which include free
trips, meals and vacation activities for prospective buyers.
Most customers of these timeshare companies buy on impulse,
without any intent to purchase when they first walked into the
timeshare seminar. Hard-sell tactics and
\Buy-it-NOW-one-time-only-offers!!!\ are the rule, and to avoid
being pressured into a bad deal, the best tactic is to avoid
these sales presentations altogether.

Try the resale market for better deals. Time-share resales are
listed on many websites, on eBay and with independent time-share
brokers. The search term \timeshare resale\ produced
approximately 500,000 results on Google, so there are plenty of
services to choose from. If you buy directly from an individual,
a resale broker or a lawyer can handle the closing for a charge
of $300 to $500.

If you are buying a timeshare for the resale value, consider
regular real estate instead. Timeshares do not increase in value
in tandem with conventional real estate. From a strictly
financial point of view, time shares are poor investments.

Most real estate increases in value, but this is not always the
case with time-shares, especially those bought directly from
timeshare companies. If you get a good deal on a resale
timeshare in a prime location, it may increase somewhat in
value. But usually time-shares are like cars -- they are
commodities to be used, and are resold for less than the
original purchase price. Don\'t think of timeshares as real
estate; you are buying a vacation plan.

Also, unless you buy in a prime location, swapping them may not
be easy. Timeshares are frequently sold on the claim that the
buyer can trade a week in one place for a week at another
location. This is only true if the location is in demand by
other vacationers. Otherwise, expect to vacation in the original
location each year.

To find out whether or not you will be happy with a timeshare,
it may be a good idea to rent one for your next vacation. Many
timeshare units are placed on the rental market by owners who
couldn\'t get away to vacation at their alloted time, and these
units often rent at bargain prices. Check the same websites that
offer timeshare resales for available rentals.

There is a new \points\ system being offered by some timeshare
properties. Instead of getting a week each year, buyers purchase
a set number of \points.\ These can be redeemed for a week\'s
stay during the peak season, for longer periods during the
off-season, or even spread over the year in two- or three- day
segments.

Some large hotel companies such as the Marriott also offer a
points systems whereby a stay at their hotel earn points in the
company\'s time-share system. Points systems can be confusing, so
be sure you have a clear understanding of the services you are
buying. For instance, find out how much advance time is required
to reserve a week at the resort during peak season, whether the
points have an expiration date, and if it is possible to
transfer the points to other facilities in the same resort
chain. However, when it comes to vacation planning, the points
system offers more flexibility because the buyer is not locked
into the same week every year.

Most important, don\'t forget the annual maintenance fee.
Time-share owners are responsible for paying a portion of the
property\'s upkeep. These annual fees, including maintenance and
real estate taxes, typically range from $300 to $700 per week of
ownership.

In summary, timeshares can be a good buy if they offer some
flexibility in terms of transferring to other locations and
timing your vacation. The typical timeshare is a small condo
with kitchen facilities and one or two bedrooms, ideal for a
family vacation, and since such units rent for $150-200 per
night, a timeshare purchase may be a cheaper way to travel.
However, if you are a mobile traveller who likes to stay in a
different town every night, a single person who doesn\'t need the
extra space, or if you travel at unpredicatable times, then a
time share may not be suitable.

Travel To Delhi

Delhi, the capital of India and ever changing city in the country has tempted, lured and decimate many empires in the course of its eight centuries long history. Right from the times of Prithiviraj Chauhan to the Mughal rule, and later from the coming of the British to the Indian independence, Delhi has been an eye witness to an era that now exists either in the history books or in the courtyards of forts, palaces and tombs.

Delhi is a fascinating city that attracts larges number of tourists from different corners of globe. Historical monuments and a fine blend of old and new is perhaps what draw most to this \'City of Djinis\'. But Delhi, old Delhi in particular does not make sense unless a traveler is not aware about the history of Shahjehanabad (old Delhi, it was established by the Mughal ruler Shah Jahan). The monuments may look huge and awesome but they won\'t look as convincing and won\'t generate same curiosity as when one has known about the purpose why they were built.

Some of the most exciting monuments to visit in Delhi are the Jama Masjid, Red Fort, Humayun\'s Tomb and Qutab Minar. A cycle rickshaw ride to the Jama Masjid is perhaps the most exciting and filled with fun. On a busy day, it\'ll perhaps take you more than half an hour to cover just a mile. The army of cycle rickshaws, bikes, cycles and hand-pulled carts add to the woes but the end, it\'s fun. So don\'t miss it.

If you are tired of choc-a-block roads and heavy traffic of old Delhi, just travel a few kilometers towards India gate and you\'ll be relived to find wide tree lined roads and buildings of the Raj era. There are a number of fine parks in the vicinity of India Gate, and a leisurely stroll in the evening connects you to the people of the city.

Delhi has a fine infrastructure, when it comes to hospitality. There are a number of hotels in the city. Delhi hotels ranges from cheap budget hotels to high end luxury hotels.

Author is a travel writer To get an idea about hotels in Delhi and to book a hotel room in Delhi/India online click here.

American Birkebeiner in Cable & Hayward Wisconsin

The silence of the northwoods awakens as the American Birkebeiner, also known as the Birkie, comes to the area. This is the largest cross-country ski marathon in North America. Participating skiers come from all across the United States and from more than 20 foreign countries. The 51-kilometer race starts near the active town of Cable and trails through the woods of northwestern Wisconsin to finish on the Main Street of Hayward. This prestigious event is only one cross-country ski race out of fourteen to be recognized by the Word Loppet organization. The Word Loppet only acknowledges the best race and no more than one cross-country ski race per country. Other countries include Japan, Switzerland, Sweden, Norway, France, Estonia, Germany, Austria, Finland, Italy, Canada and the Czech Republic.

The American Birkebeiner was started 31 years ago, but the legend goes back to 1206 - almost 800 years ago! Civil War was raging in Norway. An infant prince and heir to the throne, Haakon Haakonsson, was in danger and in hiding. Two brave Birkebeiner warriors rescued the prince and skied 55 kilometers to safety. The prince was later crowned the King of Norway and the Civil War ended. The early meaning of Birkebeiner was birch legging, which described the warrior's footwear. Today Birkebeiner has come to translate into a person of strong diversity and never intimidated by trial and hardship.

Training starts way before the falling of the first snowflake. Strength and speed is needed to compete in this athletic challenge. Off-season biking and running help ease into the transition. Understanding the strategy of drafting is also effective. This buddy system works as two or three skiers' ski in single file. As they work together, switching places, this lets each other rest slightly, reduces wind resistance and also speeds your skis. Because as the skier in front skis over the snow, the snow heats up a little and a small layer of water is generated which will reduce the friction of the skis. Good techniques are important so that precious energy is not wasted on unnecessary movement.

Purchasing the proper equipment from cross-country skis to clothing is essential. Lightweight cross-country skis with good grip, glide and stability are the popular points contestants look for when choosing their skis. The choice of clothing is based on the concept of layers. It maybe cold at the start of the race, but how much you heat up depends mostly on our unpredictable Wisconsin weather. Don't forget facial protection -
Sunglasses or goggles! They help shield the glare from the sun reflecting off the snow and minimize the distraction of blustery winds and blowing snow. The Birkie Trail will be dotted with rest stations offering warm drinks, medical attention, and needed waxes.

The celebrating festivities begin Thursday, February 19 with the opening ceremony and continue throughout the weekend. Activities feature the Winter Sport Expo, Ski Fair - On Snow Demo, Children's Snowshoe Nature Hike, seminars and endless family fun. Other races held in conjunction with this exciting event are Sons of Norway/Swiss Miss Barnebirkie (the world's largest children's cross country ski race), Cheqtel 10K (entire family fun), Junior Birkie 3K (ages 10-15) and Kortelopet 23K (ends at Telemark Resort). Visiting elite skiers and all outdoor enthusiasts are sure to have a great time!

For more on Where to go & What to do in Wisconsin, check out http://www.WisconsinGuide.com

About the Author

None

Costa Rica Tales of the Guaro

Every country has a unique beverage it claims as its own. In Costa Rica, the beverage of choice is Guaro.



Beverages



There is a certain national pride associated with claiming an alcoholic beverage. Think of Mexico and tequila immediately comes to mind. Vodka, of course, goes with Russia. Visit Greece and an ouzo headache can't be far behind. Aquavit in Sweden will definitely turn your headand stomach. Costa Rica, of course, couldn't miss out on the fun.



Guaro



Depending on which bartender you speak to, Guaro is either a mind erasing alcohol beverage or an energy drink with a little kick. Guaro is the national beverage of Costa Rica. Despite visiting Costa Rica on multiple occasions, I have never tried. And for good reason.



The Guinea Pig



Ten of us were hanging out in the beach town of Carrillo just taking in the evening after another day in the sun. Carrillo is a great town for fishing and a few epic surf spots are close by. It is similar to Tamarindo, but without the overwhelming ex-pat influence. Unfortunately, Carrillo is extremely tame at night. Put another way, there is really nothing to do.



A bit bored, the ten of us had congregated in a caf overlooking the ocean. Tables and chairs had been pushed together and we had reached the point in the evening where we were telling lies about how great we used to be. The bartender/owner approached our table and suggested we hadn't experience Costa Rica until we had sampled Guaro. One of our merry band was selected.



Known humorously as Mexico Mike, our guinea pig was experienced in the ways of Mexican Tequila. Mexico was remotely close to Costa Rica, so the drinks were probably similar. Indeed, Mexico Mike was the man for the job.



The shot glass came. Jokes were made. Mike through it back. A small grimace, a lime, slaps on the back and general laughter. Just as we started egging each other on to be the next person to experience Costa Rica, a funny thing happened.



Mexico Mike was becoming Pink Mike. Laughter stopped and concern spread across the table like the rash developing on his arms. We were probably three hours from a hospital and the term pink eye was taking on a much larger meaning. His skin was turning pink! You could actually see it moving down his arms and across his chest. His girlfriend, Stuart, was not happy!



It has to be an odd feeling to sit there and watch your skin change colors. Mike was cracking jokes as is his nature, but there was a definite tension to his laugh. Fortunately, the reaction soon slowed and retreated. Within 20 minutes, he was good as new and we had a new story to tell.



We universally passed on further offers of Guaro. A traveler has to know his or her limits!

Article Source: http://www.articledashboard.com

Rick Chapo is with www.nomadjournals.com - makers of writing journals. Travel journals are great travel accessories and travel gifts for student travel, family vacations and adventure travel. Visit www.nomadjournaltrips.com for more travel articles.

Experience The `Real' Jamaica

There are many who believe the glitz and glitter of the tourist
industries and the accompanying commercialization of both the
areas around the tourist centers and the culture of Jamaica
overshadow the \'real\' Jamaica, the people and culture that exist
beyond the tourist centers, the true heart of Jamaica. This has
led to the creation of a variety of opportunities to visit the
other side of Jamaica, to see people and life beyond the often
stereotypical vision of Jamaica that most visitors see.

The Meet The People Program is one of these interesting,
non-typical experiences. It is run by the Jamaican Tourist
Board, and has more than 500 local participants. These local
volunteers come from a variety of socio-economic backgrounds,
and their interests and skills are listed in a database.
Tourists who sign up for the program provide the same types of
information, and then locals and tourists are matched up.
Amazingly, this is a free program and provides unparalleled
social and cultural exchange. Aside from social engagements,
such as family style meals in the local host\'s home, the matched
groups together explore their shared interests in Jamaica.

Country Style is a similar program, bring tourists and residents
together for more natural interaction than would happen in the
usual tourist scene. After all, spending time with someone on an
equal footing, as opposed to with someone who is paid to see to
your comfort, is a different experience all together. Based in
Mandeville, Jamaica, visits are arranged with interested and
interesting residents throughout the island.

Jamaica For Real is the creation of Oliver Foot. His family has
been in Jamaica for generations. In fact, he is the son of the
last British governor to rule Jamaica. He provides what could be
called reality tours of Jamaica. His goal is to share his love
for Jamaica, a love that includes those qualities that may not
be attractive to those who treasure Jamaica for the tropical
pleasures of the island, for the stunning array of creature
comforts and entertainment, and for its majestic beauty.

With his Jamaica For Real tours, Foot shares the special beauty
to be found in struggle, the social struggles against oppression
that resulted in the rich \'real\' culture of Jamaica. Visiting
such sites as the Borderline, once a highly charged area between
two politicized neighborhoods during the social unrest of the
1980\'s. He tours Trenchtown, an area notorious for its poverty,
one that received international attention through the reggae
music that spoke of the desperate conditions to be found there.
He shows the beauty of the countryside and its people, and
offers a vision of the beauty to be found in the ordinary life.
He presents an amazing and enlightening vision of Jamaica in a
tour that shouldn\'t be missed.

These types of experiences are a wonderful way to explore
Jamaica. Aside from the wonderful people you\'ll meet, you\'ll
gain an insight into Jamaica that few outsiders rarely acquire.
Once you have a view of the \'real\' Jamaica, the island will
never look the same again.

Popular Varieties of Cigar Boxes

A cigar box can come in many shapes and sizes, and hold anywhere from five or six items to a complete collection containing hundreds of cigars. Great for gifts, cigar boxes serve both to protect and preserve their contents, and to display them in an attractive, elegant setting.



Modern cigar boxes are often similar to humidors in that they feature climate-controlling features that optimize the temperature and humidity in order to preserve the cigar's flavor and appearance. Some are custom made out of wood and hand-crafted to suit the exact dcor of the buyer's home.



There is also a large market for antique cigar boxes. Serious collectors fetch hefty prices for containers that date back to the turn of the century or even earlier.



Whether a buyer is seeking a cigar box for aesthetics or for preservation, cigar boxes make perfect gifts for any aficionado. Online merchants such as Cigar King offer some of the finest cigar boxes, available in many price ranges. A simple Cigar Caddy made out of Otter Box can be purchased for under $20, while a classic Ashton humidor of beautiful walnut can run upwards of $1500.



Other discount cigar stores offer boxes at reduced rates, and they can often be shipped to the customer overnight. For those looking for other cigar accessories to compliment a cigar box, there are many brands and styles of lighters, cutters and ashtrays that could make for a perfect gift set for any cigar aficionado.



If you are having trouble locating a suitable cigar store or distributor in your area, consult Cigarworld online for a directory of all local and national cigar outlets. There you will find literally hundreds of locations, both online and off, which offer cigars and cigar accessories to suit any occasion.
Cigars Info provides comprehensive information on cigar smoking, Cuban cigars, discount cigars, humidors, lighters, boxes, and more. Cigars Info is the sister site of Humidors Web.

Hello from New York City (4) Staten Island and a Random Act of Violence

The Staten Island Ferry is a fabulous institution. It is a huge ferry that departs from a very modern, glass enclosed terminal, holds several thousand people and in just about 20 minutes whisks you over to Staten Island, very close to the Statue of Liberty, and all this for free! One thing we really noticed about New York City is that we definitely love the public transportation system. With our week long pass we have been hopping on an off subways as we please and we have found the transit system to be very efficient, pretty clean and quite safe (for the most part).

The Staten Island Ferry is a great insiders way of sneaking a peak at the Statue of Liberty since it passes pretty close by Ellis Island. Not close enough to take really great pictures with a simple digital camera like mine, but I gave it a shot anyway.

As we got off the ferry terminal on Staten Island I had a bit of a hare-brained idea: I suggested that we board one of the buses that was waiting there, just to hop on and ride around and see the island. Of course I didn\'t have a bus map with me, didn\'t have any literature about Staten Island, so didn\'t know where we were going or what the major destinations were on the island. So we got on the #46 bus without any idea where we were going or how long it was going to take. (I guess I figured how big can the island be? Well, it\'s bigger than I thought...).

But we saw a good chunk of Staten Island\'s neighbourhoods and there are some pretty nice residential neighbourhoods, although I had expected a more upscale, more landscaped environment. The ethnic mix in the area seemed to be very much characterized by Blacks and Latinos, at least those were pretty much the only people getting on the bus. School had just ended so a bunch of highschool kids had gotten on with us.

Well, we rode the darn bus until the end, which ended up being a non-descript shopping mall called \West Shore Plaza\, where we ended up having a sandwich and strolling around in a sports store which had amazingly good prices on most merchandise. Then finally another bus showed up and we had to run to catch it.

It was a pretty non-eventful bus ride, people of all ages got on and off, then two young black teenage boys got on, but didn\'t pay. The bus driver didn\'t question them and we just continued the ride. All of a sudden, I heard a big noise, like someone fists hitting another person and all the people in the bus turned around, and the two young men were beating up a young short Latino teenager. It all took just a few seconds, right before a bus stop. The whole event was too quick for anyone else to react, although I have to say, the crowd showed compassion and shock at what had happened. The minute the bus came to a stop, the two guys jumped out and ran away.

Everybody was shocked. The Latino kid was sitting there, rumpled, stunned, not seriously hurt, but had a very pained expression on his face. After he had calmed down he explained that about 8 kids were trying to extract money form him at the bus stop, he said he didn\'t have any and gave them an expired transit pass and 2 of the guys followed him onto the bus.

I have never personally witnessed public violence, so this was very shocking to me and I was glad that the kid wasn\'t really hurt. But I did feel very sorry for the victim and the whole event left a bad taste in my mouth, particularly since we had had the impression that New York City had felt so clean and safe. As a matter of fact we had commented on that a number of times, of how little litter there was in the street, how few street people or hustlers there were, how there was no graffiti in the subways, and how safe it felt to be taking transit at all hours of the day. We heard that former mayor Rudy Giuliani as well as current mayor Michael Bloomberg have really been cleaning up the city, and it shows. I guess it still doesn\'t prevent all violence from happening.

After our return to Manhattan we subwayed it all the way up to 103rd Street and essentially walked all the way down through Central Park, admiring all the recreational facilities and the beauty of this giant green space. Further south we strolled over to 5th Avenue and then down into the Broadway Area just north of Times Square, where we had some quick Italian food at Ray\'s Pizza. The evening was pretty chilly, probably only about 12 degrees or so and past 11 we headed back home on the Q train, processing the memories of another packed day and studying the behaviour of our fellow transit riders all the way back.

Susanne Pacher is the publisher of a website called Travel and Transitions(http://www.travelandtransitions.com). Travel and Transitions deals with unconventional travel and is chock full of advice, tips, real life travel experiences, interviews with travellers and travel experts, insights and reflections, cross-cultural issues, contests and many other features. You will also find stories about life and the transitions that we face as we go through our own personal life-long journeys.

Submit your own travel stories in our first travel story contest(http://www.travelandtransitions.com/contests.htm) and have a chance to win an amazing adventure cruise on the Amazon River.

\Life is a Journey Explore New Horizons\.

The interview with photos is published at Travel and Transitions - Interviews

Skopelos Island Greece

Greece is a country rich in wonderful islands and to choose
between them is indeed a difficult task but ask a Greek which
one they would most like to visit and they often say Skopelos
and indeed you will see that Skopelos is where the Greeks
themselves go on holiday. It is said that Skopelos is the
greenest of all the many islands of Greece and once you have
spent some time exploring this magical place it is a difficult
claim to deny. With five million pines, fifty thousand olive
trees and only five thousand inhabitants it is a place where the
natural world dominates and the heat of the beaches is fringed
by the cool of the forests. There are also many broad leaf trees
to be seen with sweet chestnuts, walnuts and oak trees and the
island has been famous for the production of plums which were
dried in the many plum ovens that create one of the many
architectural features seen throughout Skopelos.

The two towns of the island Skopelos and Glossa are also of
great interest their beautiful houses with tiled roofs,
colourful shutters and balconies overhanging narrow alleyways
winding up the hills they are situated on creating a picturesque
but real environment in which to have a home. Skopelos town is
the capital of the island and has all the modern services you
could require but wandering up from the mulberry tree lined
harbour front, through the myriad of lanes, passed the many
small churches, to the medieval castle you could be in any of
the past few centuries.

It is a largely unspoilt island which has avoided the ravages of
mass tourism but has a good mix of foreign visitors and
residents with Greek tourists and the local population.

Many people choose to stay in Skopelos town but there are a
number of kalivis (or small farmhouses) in the countryside being
re occupied and new build houses on sites with spectacular views
and their own olive groves or orchards.There are also a number
of small villages which have property available and because of
the topography of the island you can find a great variety of
locations from chestnut filled valleys to coastal planes from
hill tops to beach fronts and from towns to unspoilt countryside.

Often visitors come to Skopelos to enjoy the beautiful white
beaches and azure waters for which it is famous but find so much
more to a place steeped in history and with a strong living
culture. At some moment during their stay whether it be walking
one of the ancient pathways, eating in one of the many tavernas
or restraunts or just absorbing the atmosphere of this beautiful
and friendly island, we are sure that they wonder if it is
possible to live in such a paradise,and we are here to tell them
that it is.

Getting here Travel to Skopelos is increasingly easy with direct
flights to the neighbouring island of Skiathos from the UK and
other countries and Olympic airways flights to Athens There are
connections by the Flying Catamaran Flying Dolphin and car
ferries to Thessaloniki and Volos which have international
airports and Aghios Constantinos for connections to Athens.